Road Trips Australia

Outback Queensland in 14 days: Epic Road Trip Journey

Are you looking to experience an Outback Queensland Road Trip? Look no further with this 14-day driving holiday adventure showcasing the best of central and Western Queensland. Discover vast and varied landscapes while witnessing expansive, vivid sunsets and the night sky filled with bright, endless stars. Learn of pioneer and Australian history, fossick for Sapphires, walk through ancient gorges, breathe in the fresh air of eucalypt forests…As you traverse the vast landscapes and encounter the warm hospitality of Outback Queensland, this road trip itinerary ensures an unforgettable adventure filled with natural wonders, cultural insights, and cherished experiences.

This Outback Queensland road trip caters to accommodation seekers, campers, and RV travellers. But before rushing away, learn the best Navigation Apps, and meal planning guide to help with a stress-free driving holiday…

When to Visit Outback Queensland?

The best time to visit outback Queensland is during winter, May to September.

Outback Queensland Road Trip
Exploring Outback Queensland near Wallumbilla as the day ends.

Outback Queensland Road Trip from Brisbane

Discover Charleville Cosmos Centre, Longreach Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Fossicking at Rubyvale, and explore the stunning sandstone country of Carnarvon Gorge on this 14-day Outback Queensland road trip:

Day 1 – Day one on this road trip travels west to Lake Broadwater Conservation Park, outside Dalby, 239 km from Brisbane. This is the only naturally occurring lake in the Darling Downs. Observe the abundance of birdlife on the lake while enjoying rest in a peaceful setting. For accommodation seekers, stay at Dalby Tourist Park—for two nights.

Day 3 – Charleville 535 kms. Witness the true outback through this pocket of ‘Mulga Country’ (Mulga Woodlands). As the sun lowers, get ready for a starry sensation! This is where you can see the stars at their best. Visit the Cosmos Centre. Stay at Charleville Bush Caravan Park, offering campsites or accommodation options. Stay two nights.

Day 5 – Longreach 515 km. You have reached the town in the centre of Queensland! Stay at Longreach Tourist Park next to Stockman’s Hall of Fame! Experience a stagecoach ride or dine at a country café in authentic outback style. Stay two nights.

Outback Queensland road trip
Fossicking at Rubyvale near Emerald

Day 7 – Rubyvale Gemfields. 391 km. Descend 17 meters underground at Miners Heritage mine tour. Learn about underground mining and try your luck finding a Sapphire. Bags of wash can be purchased, and have a go at fossicking, assisted by a staff member, to find your gem! Stay at Rubyvale Caravan Park or on the Gemfields. A fossicking permit is required if camping or fossicking. Stay for two nights.

Outback Queensland Road Trip: Be prepared when travelling in remote areas. Have appropriate water, food, and fuel supplies.

Day 9 Carnarvon Gorge National Park, 302 km. Experience the astonishing beauty of this place framed by striking sandstone walls that make up Carnarvon Gorge. Go deep into the gorge, one of the many walking trails, while spotting unique flora, fauna, and ancient Aboriginal rock art. Camp at Carnarvon Gorge or stay at Carnarvon Wilderness Lodge. Stay for two nights.

Outback Queensland Road Trip
View of sandstone gorge at Carnarvon Gorge National Park

Day 11Condamine Bell Hotel, Condamine, or Caliguel Lagoon campground 439 km. Settle in for an evening overlooking the tranquil Caliguel Lagoon or enjoy a pub meal at the Condamine Bell Hotel. Stay one night.

Day 12 – Crow’s Nest National Park, 346 km. Walk through the eucalypt forest to the stunning granite gorge calved by Crow’s Nest Creek. Rest by cascading waterfalls and breathe in the fresh air from Koonin Lookout. Camp at the parks Crows Nest Falls campground, or finish the trip in style and comfort at nearby Anduramba Homestead B & B.  Stay for two nights.

Day 14 – Return to Brisbane 147 kms to Brisbane.

This 14-day Outback Queensland road trip offers an incredible opportunity to create unforgettable memories in the unique wonders of the region. From gazing at the stars at their best and visiting the Cosmos Centre to learning about Australia’s rich history at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame in Longreach. Take the chance to go fossicking for sapphires in Rubyvale, unearthing treasures from beneath the earth’s surface. And let’s remember the rugged beauty of Carnarvon Gorge National Park. The striking sandstone gorge demands exploration with multiple walking trails. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to make lasting memories that will stay long after your journey through Outback Queensland ends.

Interested in more road trip inspiration? Explore on a tropical North Queensland road trip or discover ancient gorges of the Savannah Way in North Queensland.

Outback Queensland Road Trip Map

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